Public access into Anahuac, McFaddin and Texas Point national wildlife refuges will be closed until further notice. Many refuge facilities, roads and trails were damaged by winds and flooding from Hurricane Rita. Potential contaminant issues resulting from storage tanks and vehicles that have blown or floated onto Texas Point National Wildlife Refuge are being assessed. Refuge facilities are being stabilized to prevent further deterioration.
"We want to be certain that the refuges are safe before we allow people to return," said Texas Chenier Plain Refuge Complex project leader Andy Loranger. "We know that following a harrowing event like Rita, many people seek the serenity and repose provided by a refuge. We are working hard to make sure the refuges are safe and will notify people as soon as we can reopen.?
Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge sustained hurricane damage. However, Service staff has sufficiently stabilized facilities and the refuge remains open to visitors. Fallen trees are being removed from handicap accessible trails and they will be reopened by Sunday.
